Old North News

Former U.S. Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.), who is running for U.S. Senate in 2022, has released a statement following State Sen. Jeff Jackson’s announcement that he is seeking the same seat.

"Congratulations to Jeff Jackson on deciding the 'windowless basement' Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wanted for him in for 2020 is now appealing for 2022,” Walker said. 

Walker said that he will strive, put his efforts, and work endeavors that North Carolinians deserve.

“While he is in the basement, I’ll be in the daylight, working hard to connect with the great people of our state,” Walker added. “Here’s the bottom line: North Carolinians decide who will serve us in the Senate. Not Chuck Schumer. Not politicians in Washington. That’s why I have not accepted a dollar of corporate PAC money. Whether Erica Smith, Jeff Jackson or another candidate, I look forward to the coming debate about the future of North Carolina – a debate where I am and will be the only candidate who can be both a bridge builder and a conservative champion for our values."

A 2019 audio recording was taken during Jackson’s talk at the University of North Carolina in which he described that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wanted him to campaign from a ‘windowless basement,’ raising money to be spent on negative ad campaigns for Thom Tillis’ Senate seat. 

Walker did not seek reelection for his 6th district seat in 2020. The seat he vacated was won by Democrat Kathy Manning.